I taught vocabulary as we read books. With non-feigned delight I would say, “Oh, that’s one of my favorite words.” Finally, one boy said, “Aw, Mrs. Smith, you just like all words.” He was probably right. Who cannot make a visual picture when Matt exhibiting a sense of pride in his accomplishment swings his newly killed rabbit with nonchalance? Noting Dickins’ Victorian use of commodious requires pointing out my school bag bulging by the side of my desk. The surface of a lake with no ripples is placid in early sunlight, and all children pouring out to a playground are rambunctious and even riotous if enough boys are in the mix. Only girls can be demure.
Our knowing words is made exact by understanding the points that make them what they are. Spelling has always been my bear. (My mother cried when I failed a 6thgrade spelling test once again). I have tricks for everything. I go through gymnastics to spell prescription by thinking it is what the doctor writes before I can get the medicine. Hyphens make a difference. Recollect usually means bring to mind while re-collect has the slight difference of drawing all pieces back to a certain place, perhaps the scattered parts of your life after trauma. Generations of 6thgraders can easily spell embarrassment because one is really red when you’ve acted like an ass. Don’t forget the government city of a state is a capital because for us in Texas it is Austin.
Then there are those that are confused by pronunciation. Try explaining to a two year old that a trip to the store is running errands, not earrings. A kindergartner will cry if it’s not their turn to be a lion leader. Keep repeating line; they know what they want. An outspoken 6th grader in a poverty level schools was certain by her mother’s proclamation that aisle was the round hot circle on a stove. Writing aisle and eye didn’t make any difference to her.
So we choose words carefully. If our knowledge and that of the hearer match, then enlightened conversations can take place. When I am building a friendship or opening the
door to a comfortable situation, I choose words that are easily understood. “I hear you. You did that so well. I am really proud of you, Will you be my friend?”
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Provers 25:11
Make a list of five favorites words. Share with anyone.
Let Me Tell Ya 